Group BTS clinched three awards at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), taking home Song of the Year with "SWIM," the lead single from their fifth full-length album "ARIRANG," which was released following their military hiatus.

At the 2026 MTV VMAs held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on September 27 (local time), BTS won Song of the Year and Best K-Pop with "SWIM," and also secured Best Group, sweeping all three categories in which they were nominated.

According to BigHit Music, this marks the first time in history that a K-pop group has won Song of the Year. Song of the Year is regarded as the grand prize category of the MTV VMAs.

Through their agency, BTS expressed their heartfelt gratitude: "'ARIRANG' is an album that represents a new beginning for us, which makes this award all the more meaningful. Being able to receive such an immense honor as Song of the Year with 'SWIM' is entirely thanks to everyone who has shown love for our music. We will continue to deliver great music and incredible stages together as seven."

Upon its initial release, "SWIM" drew divided opinions. As a comeback track following the group's military hiatus, it felt unfamiliar to listeners who were anticipating a more dramatic, high-energy dance track or Korean lyrics. The members themselves had a similar reaction when they first listened to the demo before completion. On Netflix's "BTS: The Return," the members also agreed that the track had a comparatively subdued feel.

Furthermore, "SWIM" is the first title track on a BTS full-length studio album sung entirely in English. Online reactions were split between disappointment over the absence of Korean lyrics and high praise found across overseas reaction videos. Given that the album's title is "ARIRANG," some questioned whether the track's nature aligned with the overarching identity of the album.

RM, who took part in writing and composing the song, explained his deep affection for "SWIM" during a live broadcast. Describing the track, he remarked, "While it sounds like a love song, it is also a song about life. With multiple meanings, 'you' could refer to our fans, a loved one, or my own life as I look upon it. I think it is a truly rare song that captures so many varied emotions, the joys and sorrows of life."

He further underscored the authenticity woven into the lyrics, adding, "It is a song that I personally hope receives even more love. I want 'SWIM' to endure for a very long time. To me, 'SWIM' is the song I want to hear in my grave."

Despite the mixed initial reception, "SWIM" soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 (dated April 4) and No. 2 on the UK Official Singles Chart (dated March 27 to April 2), while holding the No. 1 spot on Spotify's Daily Top Songs Global for 25 consecutive days from March 20 to April 13. In addition to chart achievements, fan reactions gradually shifted as well. Listeners began praising the powerful synergy between the lyrical depth of "SWIM" and the 14-year narrative that BTS has walked through. Many fans expressed their growing devotion, noting that the more they replayed and reflected on the track, the more deeply captivated they became compared to their very first listen.

Alongside the Song of the Year honor, BTS also seized the Best Group trophy. BTS had previously claimed this award for four consecutive years from 2019 to 2022, and with this latest win, they lifted their fifth trophy overall in the category, extending their own record for the most wins in VMA history.

Beginning October 2 in Bogota, Colombia, BTS will kick off the South American leg of their "BTS WORLD TOUR 'ARIRANG'". The tour will feature a total of 14 performances across five cities, including Lima, Peru; Santiago, Chile; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and São Paulo, Brazil.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)